A release from The Federation of Hindu Mandirs (FOHM) and USAPP stated that the organizations hosted their 30th Mahatma Gandhi Peace March and COVID-19 remembrance event. The organizations comprise of Guyanese, Trinis, and other nationalities. This program commemorated the lives lost during the pandemic and honored the legacy of the great Gandhi Ji. The march recognized the lifelong work of Gandhi to free India from colonial rule and promoting peace worldwide.
Gandhi was born on Oct 2, 1869 and lived in Natal, South Africa. After combating racism through non-violent non-cooperation there, he returned to India in 1916 continuing his non-violence or ahimsa to liberate India. He is called the Father of the Indian Nation. He was also credited for ending the recruitment of indentured or girmitya laborers in March 1917 and the abolition of indentureship on January 1, 1920.
The release stated that the program began with prayers and a march from 120th street Liberty Ave to Smokey Park, a mile away. Pt Baya, formerly of Port Mourant and Black Bush, played the role of Gandhi leading the march.
At the park, gathered around tree planted three years ago, FOHM’s Vice President, Dr. Pt. Keshwar Ramkissoon introduced the MCs – Organizing Secretary Bhai Parmanad Persaud and Public Relation Officer Bahen Vedo Basdeo. The U.S. and Indian national anthems were performed by FOHM youths. A collective prayer led by all Pandits set a solemn and spiritual tone. Opening remarks were done by President of the USAPP, Pt. Bhola Adinarayan Sharma and Vice President of FOHM, Dr. Ramkissoon. They reflected on resilience and unity, while Navisthi Doobay’s rendition of “Vaishnava Jana To” paid a musical tribute to Gandhi’s ideals. Navisthi’s melodious voice enchanted the hearts of the audience. The song was Gandhi’s favorite.
The introduction of Dharmacharya Ji Pt. Ram Hardowar Pandey preceded his moving reflections on the pandemic’s impact and Gandhi’s enduring message of peace. Dharmacharya Ji spoke about how Mahatam Gandhi Ji lived by these three principles: Satya (truth), Ahimsa (nonviolence) and Sewa (selfless actions). Gandhi Ji lived and died by one message, strength does not come from physical capacity but invaluable willpower.
Bhai Chander Mohan offered a powerful artistic portrayal of Gandhi Ji, followed by remarks from local politicians, NYPD representatives Inspector Ralph Clement and Detective Neil Narayan and community leaders including Shubraa Dataa from Queens Borough President Office, Sherry Algredo Community Board 9, Bhai Sagar, and Richard David community leader, who emphasized community strength and solidarity. Dr. Ramkissoon also offered remarks praising Gandhi-ji and memorializing loss of lives from Covid as well as 9/11. Honoring our Pitris/ancestors, Pt. Suraj Hardowar and fellow Pandits chanted the Pitri Suktam which then led into a symbolic flower-laying ceremony and the releasing of balloons, both conducted by FOHM members to mark remembrance and hope.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from 2nd Vice President of FOHM Bhai Doodnauth Dasrat and closing prayers, leaving attendees uplifted and united in purpose. The gathering was a beautiful blend of cultural reverence, spiritual reflection, and communal healing.
